Know Your Numbers Week encourages Lewisham staff to check their blood pressure
Dozens of staff from Lewisham Council and South East London ICB took the opportunity to have a free blood pressure check this week as part of Know Your Numbers Week, helping to raise awareness of the importance of monitoring blood pressure and preventing cardiovascular disease. The initiative was held at Laurence House on Wednesday and Thursday and was delivered by trained Hypertension Champions from the Africa Advocacy Foundation (AAF).
The drop-in sessions were open to all Lewisham Council and South East London ICB staff, with no appointment required. Staff attended throughout both days to receive a quick blood pressure check and learn more about the risks associated with high blood pressure, often known as the “silent killer” because it commonly has no symptoms.
The checks formed part of national Know Your Numbers Week activities and highlighted the importance of early detection. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease and dementia, yet many people live with the condition without realising it. The event gave staff the opportunity to understand their own blood pressure reading and receive advice on maintaining a healthy heart.
The Africa Advocacy Foundation’s Hypertension Champions, who regularly support community blood pressure awareness events across South East London, engaged staff in conversations about cardiovascular health and the simple steps people can take to reduce their risk. Attendees also had the opportunity to take part in a Know Your Numbers quiz and enter a prize draw to win a home blood pressure monitor.
Jonathan McInerny, Head of LTC and Cancer from South East London ICB (Lewisham) said:
“It was fantastic to see so many colleagues taking a few minutes out of their day to check their blood pressure. Prevention starts with knowing your numbers, and these sessions provided an easy and accessible way for staff to take a positive step for their health. We are grateful to the Africa Advocacy Foundation team for supporting us and helping to make the event such a success”.
The strong turnout demonstrates the continued appetite amongst staff for prevention-focused health initiatives and supports Lewisham’s wider ambitions to improve cardiovascular health across the borough. Organisers hope the event will encourage more people to regularly monitor their blood pressure and seek support if they have concerns.
Know Your Numbers Week is the UK’s biggest blood pressure awareness campaign, encouraging people to check their blood pressure and understand what the numbers mean for their health. The success of this year’s staff event reflects the commitment of both Lewisham Council and South East London ICB to promoting health and wellbeing in the workplace.